Treating Cystic Acne

Treating Cystic Acne-Salt Lake City, Utah

Cystic acne occurs when oil and dead skin cells clog the pores and accumulate deep within the hair follicles, leading to large, painful cysts. This type of acne is severe and needs medical attention.

Cystic Acne is the Most Severe Form of Acne

The most severe form of acne, cystic acne, is sometimes referred to as a disease because it may require medical treatment. It can lead to scarring and is sometimes resistant to over-the-counter treatments.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of cystic acne include:

• Large, red lumps under the skin
• Pain around the site of the acne
• Pus-filled, oozing nodules.
• Crusty skin
• Small to large bumps that can appear red with a white or yellow head.

Where is cystic acne usually found?

• Face
• Back
• Arms
• Neck
• Shoulders
• Chest

Causes

Sometimes, the cause of cystic acne is unknown. Other times, there are specific causes related to the development of cystic acne. Here are a few causes of cystic acne:

• Hormonal Fluctuations
  From puberty to pregnancy to menopause, these hormonal changes can bring on bouts of cystic acne.
• Stress
  Stress can cause acne because the body’s immune system is disrupted.
• Genetics and Family History of Cystic Acne
  If one or more of your parents have cystic acne, you will likely struggle with it.
• Age
  The teen years are a time when cystic acne may be an issue.

Treatment for Cystic Acne

There are many available treatment options for cystic acne. Some of these treatments include:

• Antibiotic creams, gels, and lotions
  These treatments can kill bacteria and decrease inflammation.
• Azelaic acid or Salicylic acid
  These acids are effective at killing bacteria on the skin that may be the cause of cystic acne
• Benzoyl Peroxide
  Available over-the-counter or at prescription level, this product can be very effective at reducing bacteria on the skin
• Retinoids
  You may have heard of retinoids. They are vitamin A derivatives that help slough off dead skin cells.
• Steroid Injections
  Steroids can sometimes reduce inflammation and help the body to heal.
• Incision and Draining
  This helps to open up a cyst and help the healing process begin
• Birth Control Pills
  Balancing the hormones can help reduce cystic acne.
• Isotretinoin
  Similarly to topical retinoids, oral retinoids can be used to treat cystic acne and commonly known as accutaine.

Contact Us for Effective Cystic Acne Treatment

When you’re ready to treat cystic acne, look to the experts at Swinyer Woseth Dermatology. Serving Salt Lake City, Wasatch Front, and the surrounding areas, our medical team has more than 30 years of experience treating the largest organ of the body, the skin.  Our goal is to keep our patients happy and healthy. Whether you seek skin care services, cosmetic services, or surgical care, we want to help you with a quick recovery and a happy healing process. Please visit our website to view a menu of our services or schedule an appointment.